The Ciaron Maher team is confident that heading back to Morphettville will prove successful once more for Benedetta.
Previously, when the mare competed at Adelaide’s top track, she claimed victory in The Goodwood at Group 1 level back in May 2024.
At that point, Benedetta was under the guidance of Jason Warren, delivering Jamie Melham a prized Group 1 triumph in her local area.
Now moved to Maher’s stable ahead of the 2025-26 campaign, Benedetta has shown solid efforts yet struggled to secure another win.
The team anticipates a turnaround this Saturday as Benedetta lines up in the Group 1 Robert Sangster Stakes (1200m), a weight-for-age event restricted to fillies and mares.
Jamie Melham retains the ride on Benedetta, who has drawn gate four.
Jack Turnbull, National Assistant Trainer for Ciaron Maher Racing, noted that Benedetta has been knocking on the door this preparation and should thrive against her own sex.
“If there’s any rain it would enhance her chances, not that she needs it,” Turnbull said.
“She’s been beaten around that two-length margin in Group 1’s by some very good horses, and one of them was under handicap conditions.
“We feel she’s going super, she just needs to get in the right spot at the right time and she’s good enough, as we know.
“There are no faults with her from our end, she just needs a bit of luck.”
Since linking up with the Maher operation, Benedetta has had six outings for a single third placing, achieved on debut when behind Tentyris in the Lightning Stakes (1000m) at Flemington during February.
Turnbull admitted to some impatience in the stable over her lack of recent victories, though they recognise her talent when it clicks.
“There is (some frustration) as she hasn’t won for a little while, but you look at her form and she’s giving everyone a thrill in some big races,” Turnbull said.
“You would love to see her add another Group 1 to her page to show she has got longevity as a racing prospect for breeders.
“She has been solid for us and hopefully she can get another victory.”
Explore the Australian betting sites for top racing odds ahead of the Robert Sangster Stakes.